WASHINGTON, D.C., August 4, 2026 — The Reusable Packaging Association (RPA) returns to PACK EXPO International at McCormick Place in Chicago, Illinois, October 18 to 21, 2026, as the organizing force behind one of the trade show’s most anticipated destinations: the Reusable Packaging Pavilion. Known as the go-to destination for the most sustainable packaging, the Pavilion brings together the world’s largest exhibition of reusable packaging solutions, industry experts, and an education program that sets the tone for where the industry is heading.
With over 75 participating companies spanning thousands of square feet of exhibit space, the Reusable Packaging Pavilion showcases the latest advancements in reusable packaging products, systems, and technologies. From durable pallets, totes, bins, and containers to smart tracking and automation-ready solutions, attendees will experience the full spectrum of what reusable transport packaging delivers for operational performance, cost efficiency, and environmental impact.
New in 2026: The Next-Gen Reuse Corridor
Making its debut at this year’s PACK EXPO International is the first-ever Next-Gen Reuse Corridor, a dedicated section inside the Reusable Packaging Pavilion focused on reuse and refill solutions for primary and consumer packaging applications. Organized and sponsored by Upstream, a nonprofit change agency for the reuse movement in the U.S. and Canada, the Corridor features a network of companies providing innovative reusable packaging solutions for foodservice, beverage, e-commerce, and consumer packaged goods.
The Corridor is a must-visit for consumer brand marketers, sustainability leads, B2C procurement teams, and storefront merchandisers. Attendees will see firsthand how cutting-edge reuse companies are building the infrastructure, technology, and logistics behind scalable reuse systems that are already operating in the real world. From navigating source-reduction goals to complying with a growing number of packaging EPR regulations, the Corridor offers a practical look at how reuse and refill pathways are making this possible.
“This is a new era of reusable packaging systems for foodservice, beverage, consumer packaged goods, and e-commerce, high-tech, designed around infrastructure and recirculation, and part of a rapidly maturing and standardizing industry,” said Crystal Dreisbach, CEO of Upstream. “That’s why we’re excited to join the Reusable Packaging Association this year to launch the Next-Gen Reuse Corridor. If you’re exploring how to transition your company to reusable packaging, the Corridor brings together everything you need: logistics innovators, durable packaging suppliers, smart packaging and asset tracking innovators, and packaging-as-a-service providers.”
Reusable Packaging Learning Center
The Reusable Packaging Learning Center returns with a two-day live educational program featuring presentations and panel discussions on the most pressing topics facing the reusable packaging industry today. Located in a dedicated theater in the Reusable Packaging Pavilion, the Learning Center provides a stage for industry leaders, innovators, and RPA member companies to introduce new products, share research and case studies, and deliver practical insights on navigating compliance, scaling reuse infrastructure, measuring ROI, and overcoming adoption barriers.
The Learning Center program will open with the customary State of the Industry address from RPA President and CEO Tim Debus on Monday, October 19, and sessions will continue through Tuesday, October 20. The program closes with the highly anticipated 15th Annual Excellence in Reusable Packaging Awards, held on Tuesday, October 20, from 4:00 to 5:00 p.m. CST. The awards recognize standout achievements by companies applying reuse in transformative ways across operations, design, and technology.
“The Reusable Packaging Pavilion is really unique in its showcase of reusable packaging solutions,” said Tim Debus, President and CEO of the Reusable Packaging Association. “The Pavilion has developed over 15 years, with each year increasing in size, product demonstrations, and onsite expertise to assist attendees. There is an established history that carries forward knowledge and experience unlike anywhere else, offering an immersive learning experience for those interested in reusable packaging.”
With tens of thousands expected to walk the floor at PACK EXPO International, the Reusable Packaging Pavilion stands as the premier destination for reusable packaging expertise, innovation, and connection all in one space.
For more information on the Reusable Packaging Pavilion, Learning Center schedule, and Excellence in Reusable Packaging Awards, visit reusables.org.
About the Reusable Packaging Association (RPA)
Founded in 1999, the Reusable Packaging Association (RPA) is a non-profit trade organization representing and promoting the common and pro-competitive business interests of member suppliers and users of reusable packaging products and services. RPA accelerates supply chain adoption and optimization of reusable packaging systems through education and advocacy. For more information, visit reusables.org.
About Upstream
Upstream drives the transition toward a robust, self-sustaining reuse economy across the U.S. and Canada. Founded in 2003, Upstream now functions as the movement’s systems orchestrator, convening the actors, building the models, advancing supportive policy, and building the financial, institutional, and market infrastructure needed to eliminate waste, build climate and community resilience, and normalize reuse as an economic and environmental imperative. Learn more at upstreamsolutions.org.